Chicory

Chicory needs a sunny position and does best in soil that is rich and moisture retentive and a pH of 6.5.

3 weeks before sowing, apply a general fertiliser to the area at the rate of 2oz per yard of row.

Sow the seed in late April or early May, directly where they are to grow. Do not be tempted to sow too early as the plants have a tendency to run to seed. Sow the seed thinly in shallow drills and thin the plants to 9" apart. Leave 12" between the rows.

Keep the plants free of weeds and well watered.

Cut the hearts of the green variety as soon as they have filled out.

In the autumn, dig up the white blanched variety; trim the leaves to about 1" and store in boxes of moist peat or Vermiculite. Every 3 - 4 weeks plunge some of the roots into a container of peat to force them. The box needs to be about 2' deep. Fill it one third full of peat and plunge the chicory into it. Top up with another 9" layer of peat. This ensures that the heads will be compact and firm. Keep in a warm place. After 4- 5 weeks the plants should be approximately 8" long. Lift out of the peat and trim from the roots. They are now ready for use.

Pests and Diseases

Chicory is generally trouble free but slugs may become a problem or, on the green variety you may find a few Aphids. (See relative Pests and Diseases sections for prevention/cures)